Thales awarded Norwegian rail contract

Thales said Tuesday Jernbaneverket (JBV), the Norwegian rail administration, awarded a framework agreement to deliver a new interlocking system, The initial 33 million euro ($41.5 million) phase includes three signaling projects, involving the Sandnes-Stavanger line, the Ganddal cargo terminal, and Høvik station.

The framework agreement spans 10 years, with an additional contract for support services over a 25-year period.

Thales said the contract will secure JBV's need for conventional signaling systems until the next generation of digital signaling solutions and automatic traffic control (European Rail Traffic Management System) is in place. The system meets the highest security level (SIL4) and includes Automatic Train Control (ATC) and remote control, the company said.

"We selected Thales as they have broad experience from similar projects in Europe and have proven to be a supplier who manages technological requirements and innovative solutions in a good way. All in all, this was the most favorable offer," said JBV Project Manager-Signaling Erik Sletten.